Cops reminded of their 'free service' to public

The Regional Operations and Plans Division Chief of the PNP has issued a memorandum reminding all policemen of their sworn duties as public servants that their services are for free and not for sale, this after there are complaints against some policemen by foreigners that they are allegedly being harassed for the sole purpose of extorting money from them.

ROPD chief, S/Supt. Carmelo Valmoria said that the memorandum was issued after they have received a memo from the directorate office about the complaints against some PNP members by foreigners.

The memo from the directorate office stated that Saudi ambassador to the Philippines Mohammed Ameen Wali is complaining against some abusive PNP members who are extorting money from Saudi nationals.

Valmoria stated that this is not the first time the PNP chief has received a complaint like this from foreigners in fact, scores of them have come to his attention.

He reminded that one of the economic strategies of the Philippine government is to attract foreign tourists and investors. In this field, the Philippines is competing with the best nations in the world.

However, the actuation of some PNP personnel towards foreigners are incompatible with the general sentiment of the PNP because such do not only scare away tourists but also potential investors.

As such, Valmoria directed to all police directors that they should undertake the activities in support to their current initiatives like conducting lectures towards moral and spiritual enrichment, intensified operation to neutralize "kotong cops"; and constantly remind the personnel of their sworn duties as public servants. - Norvie S. Misa